A fire has destroyed the historic Marché des Enfants Rouges, which dates back to 1615, authorities said on Monday.
The fire broke out at around 3am local time, according to French media. It was brought under control later in the morning, but the cause remains unknown.
Historic covered market destroyed
Lieutenant-Colonel de Bouvier of the Paris Fire Brigade said flames were affecting the entire covered market when firefighters arrived.
“Nothing remains of the covered market,” he said, adding that its metal structure had partially collapsed.
Ariel Weil, mayor of Paris Centre, also confirmed that the market had been “totally destroyed” after the blaze was brought under control.
Weil described the site as a hub for dining and socialising in the French capital and urged people to avoid the surrounding area in the northern part of the Marais district.
Popular destination in the Marais district
The Marché des Enfants Rouges is located in the Marais, an upscale neighbourhood popular with tourists and residents.
The market first opened in 1615 and is considered the oldest covered food market in Paris. It hosts fruit and vegetable vendors alongside food stalls offering a range of meals.
Its name translates as the “Market of the Red Children” and refers to the red clothing worn by children at a nearby orphanage.
The extent of the damage means the historic site has been lost, while authorities have yet to establish what caused the fire.
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